Name: Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups diced cooked chicken (12 ounces); 6 ounces cavatappi pasta (about 16 ounces cooked; use gluten-free if needed); 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls; 2 cups sliced Persian or mini-cucumbers; 6 ounces grape or heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved; ⅓ cup finely diced red onion; ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; ½ cup prepared pesto (preferably refrigerated to keep vibrant green color); Optional: Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 87 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly marries vibrant flavors with satisfying freshness, this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chunks of chicken, al dente cavatappi pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy mozzarella pearls all tossed in bright, herby pesto. Each bite bursts with color and texture, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser that shines in any season. Whether you’re packing a lunch, serving a potluck, or just enjoying a light dinner, this pasta salad delivers cozy comfort with a gourmet twist.

Ingredients You'll Need

A top view of seven small bowls and a jar arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients. Starting from the bottom left, there is a bowl filled with curled yellow pasta, its smooth surface catching light. Above it and slightly right is a speckled white bowl packed with small, white mozzarella balls. To the right, another speckled white bowl holds cubed light beige cooked chicken pieces. Above that, a clear bowl contains sliced round green cucumber pieces, with their watery texture visible. At the top left, a small clear bowl shows finely chopped red onion, vibrant and uneven in size. Below it, another small clear bowl contains soft shredded white cheese. On the far right, a jar with a hinged lid holds thick green pesto, textured with herbs and small chunks, with a spoon resting in it. At the bottom right, a clear bowl filled with halved cherry tomatoes in red, yellow, and orange colors completes the arrangement. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of the Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe lies in the simple, quality ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element plays a key role—from the tender chicken adding protein to the fresh veggies contributing crunch and color, and the pesto bringing in that unmistakable herbal punch.

Diced cooked chicken (2 ½ cups / 12 ounces): Use juicy, well-seasoned chicken to keep the salad hearty and flavorful.

Cavatappi pasta (6 ounces uncooked; about 16 ounces cooked): The spiral shape holds onto pesto and other flavors beautifully; gluten-free works just as well.
Fresh mozzarella pearls (8 ounces): Small, creamy cheese bites add smooth richness that contrasts perfectly with the veggies.
Persian or mini-cucumbers (2 cups, sliced): Crunchy and refreshing, they brighten the salad and add a cool texture.

Grape or heirloom cherry tomatoes (6 ounces, halved): Choose colorful tomatoes for both sweetness and a splash of vibrant color.
Red onion (⅓ cup, finely diced): Brings a subtle sharpness to balance the creamy and herby elements.
Prepared pesto (½ cup): Make sure it’s refrigerated for that fresh, vivid green color and punchy basil flavor.

Shredded Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, plus more for garnish): Adds a nutty finish that ties everything together.
Optional fresh basil leaves: For garnish and an extra fresh herb aroma.

How to Make Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Chicken

Start by cooking your cavatappi pasta just until al dente, then rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Make sure the pasta is fully drained so your salad doesn’t get watery. Toss the cooked, diced chicken into a large bowl with the cooled pasta—this forms the hearty base for your salad.

Step 2: Add the Fresh Ingredients

Next up, stir in the fresh mozzarella pearls, the crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and the finely diced red onion. Each of these adds its own texture and layer of flavor, creating a balanced and vibrant mix that delights the palate with every bite.

Step 3: Mix in the Pesto and Parmesan

Pour in the refrigerated, bright green pesto, making sure it coats the pasta and chicken evenly. Sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese and gently toss everything together. The pesto’s blend of basil, pine nuts, and garlic brings the whole dish alive, while Parmesan adds a subtle salty depth.

Step 4: Garnish and Chill

Finish off by garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a bit more Parmesan cheese if you like. This not only makes the salad look gorgeous but also amps up the herbal aroma. Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to let all the flavors mingle before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with spiral pasta coated in a green pesto sauce, mixed with slices of green cucumber and halved red and yellow cherry tomatoes. Small white cubes of cheese are scattered throughout, with thin shreds of light yellow cheese sprinkled on top. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on the pasta and around the bowl, adding bright touches of color. Two metal forks rest inside the bowl, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a soft pink cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are the go-to garnish here, providing a refreshing herbal scent and a pop of green. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad is versatile enough to be served as a main or a side. Pair it with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables for a light, wholesome meal. It also complements grilled meats or seafood perfectly, making it a great option for summer barbecues or casual dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to wow your guests? Serve the Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe in individual mason jars for a charming picnic-ready presentation. Alternatively, layer it in a clear trifle bowl to show off all the colorful ingredients. For a fun twist, stuff it into bell pepper halves for edible, vibrant bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep in mind the fresher it is, the more vibrant the flavors and textures will be, so try to enjoy it within that timeframe.

Freezing

This salad doesn’t freeze well because the fresh vegetables and mozzarella pearls lose their texture and creaminess. To maintain the best quality, it’s recommended to prepare only what you plan to eat within a few days.

Reheating

Since this is best served chilled or at room temperature, there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer it slightly warmer, simply let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Just give it a gentle stir to bring the pesto back to life.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While cavatappi is great because of its shape and ability to hold pesto, other short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli work wonderfully in this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe.

Is there a good substitute for fresh mozzarella pearls?

If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, cubed mozzarella or even small burrata portions can be used. Just add these gently to prevent breaking them apart.

Can I make my own pesto?

Definitely! Homemade pesto brings an even fresher taste. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, lemon juice, and olive oil to your desired consistency. Just be sure it’s well chilled before tossing into the salad to keep that vibrant color.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan-friendly Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe, swap the chicken for chickpeas or grilled tofu, use dairy-free mozzarella alternatives, and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

What’s the best way to dice the chicken for this salad?

It’s best to cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized, uniform pieces to ensure every forkful has the perfect balance of chicken, pasta, and veggies. Dicing makes it easy to toss and serve evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe is a total winner when you want something that’s easy to throw together but tastes like a special occasion. The vibrant colors, the mix of textures, and the fresh pesto flavor make each bite a delight. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe box. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be looking for excuses to serve it again and again!

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need